External Actors as a Remedy to the South East Secessionist Agitation

South East Nigeria was considered a safe zone four years ago. This has not been the case in recent years, as the region has been plagued by conflicts and violent attacks perpetrated by unidentified gunmen, kidnappers, separatist agitators and actions of state actors. The securitisation of the region is also considered a factor fuelling the violence. Secessionism in South East Nigeria, often linked to the pro-Biafra movement, has been a persistent issue in the country’s socio-political landscape. This challenge is rooted in historical grievances, economic marginalisation, and identity politics. The secessionist agitations in the South East have created a smokescreen for other armed groups to compound security threats and intervention measures in the region. Furthermore, the region’s residents are in a dilemma due to the sit-at-home directives and violent outbreaks.

Some problem areas in the region are related to policing and public safety. The breakdown of law and order circles back to the inability of the state to provide adequate law and order in the region. Through an absence of assurances of public safety, this feeds into the agendas of criminal elements. There also exists a governance problem regarding reasserting the state’s discharge of its responsibility for social provisioning. Unlike the full-blown security crisis, the political class has been unable to nip the security issue at the onset. The insufficient concrete alliances with other parts of the country to discuss the way forward have hindered addressing the situation in the South East region. More importantly, the incarceration and continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu have exacerbated already-existing grievances and increased the volatility of the problem. This is such that his arrest has transformed him into a symbol of resistance against perceived marginalisation and injustice. Many see his incarceration as a political move aimed at suppressing legitimate grievances and silencing dissent. The incarceration of Kanu has also increased radicalisation among his followers.

However, the potential release of Nnamdi Kanu could create a path towards providing some opportunities for peace. For instance, Kanu’s release could serve as a de-escalatory measure, potentially reducing the immediate tensions and hostilities in the region. It might ease the grievance among his supporters, who see his detention as a symbol of broader injustices. Also, releasing Kanu could open the door for dialogue between the Nigerian government and the pro-Biafra movement. It would provide an opportunity to address the grievances of the South East region, including issues of political representation, economic development, and cultural recognition. A constructive dialogue could help find mutually acceptable solutions and pave the way for greater integration and national unity.

However, Kanu’s release alone is unlikely to bring sustainable peace to the South East region, judging from current circumstances. The grievances fuelling the secessionist movement are deep-rooted. They include longstanding issues of political exclusion, economic inequality, and cultural identity. Moreover, factions within the movement, some more radical than others, may continue to pursue their agenda regardless of Kanu’s status. The region’s instability is likely to persist without addressing these underlying issues.

As tensions in the region have persisted, there is a need to consider the use of external actors for mediation, dialogue, and peacebuilding. Especially external factors that are acceptable to key stakeholders, such as the federal government, the secessionist groups, etc.   The involvement of organisations such as the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), the United Nations (UN), etc, can play critical roles in addressing these issues. For instance, the USIP, with its expertise in conflict resolution, can act as a neutral mediator to facilitate dialogue between the Nigerian government and pro-secession groups, such as the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). This dialogue should address the secessionist sentiments’ root causes, including political representation, economic disparities, and cultural recognition. The USIP’s involvement can help build trust among the parties, ensuring that the dialogue is inclusive and constructive.

Economic marginalisation has been a significant driver of secessionist sentiments in South East Nigeria. Through its development agencies, the UN can support initiatives to promote economic development and reduce poverty in the region. This can include investment in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, as well as supporting local businesses and entrepreneurship. Also, human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings and detentions, have exacerbated tensions in South East Nigeria. Through bodies like the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the UN can monitor the human rights situation in the region and advocate for accountability and justice. This can help build trust between the government and local communities, ensuring that security forces operate within the bounds of the law and respect human rights.

The USIP and the UN can collaborate to strengthen local institutions and civil society organisations in South East Nigeria. This includes providing training in conflict resolution, governance, and human rights. By empowering local actors, these institutions can play a more effective role in mediating conflicts, advocating for community interests, and holding the government accountable. Furthermore, both the USIP and the UN can work to raise international awareness of the situation in South East Nigeria and encourage other development partners like FCDO, USAID, GIZ, etc, to support peaceful and diplomatic efforts. This can include engaging with the African Union and other regional organisations to support Nigeria’s sovereignty while promoting respect for human rights and the rule of law. Also, the Federal Government needs stronger political will to adopt recommendations from security and conflict-focused institutions such as Nextier, the UN and USIP.

While the primary responsibility for addressing secessionism in South East Nigeria lies with the Nigerian government and local stakeholders, external actors such as the USIP and the UN can play a crucial supportive role. By facilitating dialogue, promoting development, monitoring human rights, and building institutional capacity, these organisations can help create a more conducive environment for a peaceful resolution.